The traditional model of consumption has always been make, take and dispose. However given the need to conserve resources to promote sustainability, a circular economy is now the preferred approach.
In short, a circular economy seeks to keep resources in use for as long as possible and extract maximum value. It is a regenerative approach that minimises waste pollution and the depletion of natural resources.
The notion of a circular economy is gaining momentum in various sectors, including industrial manufacturing.
Metreel is a leading UK supplier of industrial equipment such as cranes and powerfeed equipment.
In today’s post, our team is here to share some of their observations about how the circular economy is revolutionising industrial manufacturing.
Being More Efficient With Resources
Industrial manufacturing often requires the use of raw materials to produce a whole host of products. But to follow a circular economy, manufacturers must adopt processes that look to use more recycled materials, while also looking to reduce raw material waste.
For example, some companies are used reclaimed metals, plastics and electronic components to reduce dependence on raw materials.
It’s also worth remembering that the use of energy can also deplete resources, especially as various types of machinery are required within industrial manufacturing. Therefore, it’s also important to improve energy efficiency including for energy-intensive machinery. Areas to consider include the use of renewable energy sources, while also ensuring the equipment itself is running efficiently.
Designing For Longevity
For any industrial manufacturing business to achieve a circular economy, it must consider the total lifecycle of its products. Simply put, manufacturing goods should be done in a way that emphasises longevity, including through the use of durable components or modular design principles.
Here at Metreel, we design our products, including the likes of our mechanical handling equipment with longevity in mind.
Overall, products should be easier to repair, repurpose or upgrade without having to discard the product. When manufacturing parts, they should be standardised where possible to extend the product life.
Closed-Loop Supply Chains
Closed-loop supply chains involve the continuous recycling or reuse of materials.
Within industrial manufacturing, this idea already exists in terms of packaging, which can easily be collected, processed and reused so that the materials are brought back into production.
However, a closed-loop system can also exist elsewhere to reduce the reliance on raw materials and ultimately reduce the carbon footprint of the business.
In some cases, achieving a closed-loop supply chain may involve switching up how products are made, including the materials used. It is the responsibility of the business to audit its environmental footprint, including ensuring that as many processes as possible follow a closed-loop system.
Upgrade Your Industrial Workplace Equipment With Metreel
Is it time you upgraded your current lifting or powerfeed equipment to improve productivity, safety and energy efficiency?
Metreel is based in Derbyshire and we supply our products to businesses across the UK and beyond. One of the key sectors we serve is industrial manufacturing.
Download our brochure to view our product specifications in further detail.
Or, you can also let us know about your requirements by dropping us a message or by giving us a call on 0115 932 7010.